Clay pigeons

Abstract

A method of making clay pigeons is disclosed involving the step of compacting a dry powder comprising an inorganic filler comprising more than 50% by weight calcium carbonate and a binder. Also disclosed is a dry pressed pitchless clay pigeon.

What is claimed is:  
     
       1. A method of making clay pigeons by the step of compacting a dry powder comprising an inorganic filler and a binder, the inorganic filler comprising greater than 50% by weight calcium carbonate particles characterised in that the binder comprises a lignosulphonate compound, and in that prior to compaction at room temperature the inorganic filler and lignosulphonate compound are mixed as an acqueous slurry and spray dried to form a free flowing, uniform powder in which lignin is bonded to the surface of the calcium carbonate particles in a uniform layer, so that adjacent lignin covered surfaces have a strong affinity for each other. 
     
     
       2. A method of making clay pigeons as claimed in  claim 1 , in which the inorganic filler also comprises clay. 
     
     
       3. A method of making clay pigeons as claimed in  claim 1  in which a plasticiser forms part of the powder.